Beans are a staple ingredient in Romanian cuisine, bringing a special taste and a comforting consistency. To prepare a delicious bean soup, it is essential to start with good preparation of the beans. Therefore, we soak the beans overnight in cold water to hydrate them properly and reduce the boiling time. In the morning, we change the water in which the beans have been soaking, in order to eliminate any impurities and unwanted substances.
Once we have drained the beans, we put them to boil in a pot with fresh water. When the water starts to boil, we discard this first water, rinse the pot to ensure the beans are clean, and then add the beans to another pot of hot water. This procedure is repeated twice, ensuring that the beans will have a pleasant taste without bitterness.
In the last added water, we introduce a few bay leaves, peppercorns, and smoked meat, which has been well washed to remove excess salt or smoke. The smoked meat will add a rich and savory flavor to the soup. Meanwhile, we prepare the vegetables: the onion is finely chopped and sautéed in a pan with a little oil until it becomes glassy and aromatic. Then, we add the grated carrot and the bell pepper, cut into strips or cubes, sautéing them together for a few minutes to enhance their flavors.
When the beans are half cooked, we add the sautéed vegetables to the soup, along with thyme, tarragon, and paprika. These herbs will transform the dish into a delicacy. After the beans and smoked meat are fully cooked, it is time to season with salt and add the tomato paste, which will provide a vibrant color and deep flavor. We let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes, then turn off the heat.
For a fresh and aromatic finish, we sprinkle fresh dill or parsley, finely chopped, on top. These herbs will not only add a pleasant appearance but will also enrich the soup's aroma. Serve the bean soup hot, alongside a slice of homemade bread, and enjoy a delicious dish that will warm your soul. Enjoy your meal!
Once we have drained the beans, we put them to boil in a pot with fresh water. When the water starts to boil, we discard this first water, rinse the pot to ensure the beans are clean, and then add the beans to another pot of hot water. This procedure is repeated twice, ensuring that the beans will have a pleasant taste without bitterness.
In the last added water, we introduce a few bay leaves, peppercorns, and smoked meat, which has been well washed to remove excess salt or smoke. The smoked meat will add a rich and savory flavor to the soup. Meanwhile, we prepare the vegetables: the onion is finely chopped and sautéed in a pan with a little oil until it becomes glassy and aromatic. Then, we add the grated carrot and the bell pepper, cut into strips or cubes, sautéing them together for a few minutes to enhance their flavors.
When the beans are half cooked, we add the sautéed vegetables to the soup, along with thyme, tarragon, and paprika. These herbs will transform the dish into a delicacy. After the beans and smoked meat are fully cooked, it is time to season with salt and add the tomato paste, which will provide a vibrant color and deep flavor. We let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes, then turn off the heat.
For a fresh and aromatic finish, we sprinkle fresh dill or parsley, finely chopped, on top. These herbs will not only add a pleasant appearance but will also enrich the soup's aroma. Serve the bean soup hot, alongside a slice of homemade bread, and enjoy a delicious dish that will warm your soul. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients
400 g beans, 1 large onion, 2 carrots, 1 bell pepper, smoked meat (e.g. bacon, ribs, etc.), 2 bay leaves, peppercorns, thyme, 1 tablespoon sweet paprika, tarragon, tomato paste, salt, 2-3 tablespoons oil, dill and/or fresh parsley.